“After the brutally harsh winter that swept across the GTA, many were about the warmer spring and summer weather. Unfortunately, summers in Toronto never seem to last long enough,” says Sue Shorey, operations manager. “To take advantage of the short season, some homeowners remodelled their backyards and turned them into outdoor living spaces.”

Shorey explains that instead of looking out over a simple patch of grass, today’s homeowners are extending their living area by creating luxury, upscale landscaping and structures. That could include a gourmet outdoor kitchen, gazebo, cabana, enclosed structure, fire table, or water feature. Upscale landscaping can include custom decks, porches, patios, small courtyards, plant and large tree installation, sodding, and fine grading.

She also notes that outdoor living spaces are no longer limited to warmer climes; and are the perfect way to help Torontonians enjoy the outdoors in the early fall. With the right design and build team, homeowners can enjoy the same creature comforts typically found in a living room: that could include a gourmet kitchen, all-weather upholstered furniture, custom bar, and even air conditioning for when summer rolls back around.

“A patio or outdoor fire table can provide warmth and ambiance and let many homeowners get an early start on spring, and now enjoy backyard tranquility well into the fall,” Shorey adds. “Adding lighting features can further enhance the luxury of any custom backyard sanctuary.”

Shorey observes that regardless of the size of the backyard, a water feature can enhance the outdoor space and create the perfect calming retreat. Fountains are a tranquil focal point while an elegant waterfall can bridge different outdoor living areas. Ponds can provide a quiet place to relax and include multiple pools with small waterfalls and live fish.

“With more than 20 years of award-winning landscape design and construction experience, Garden Structures & Landscape Construction Inc. can create the perfect backyard haven,” Shorey concludes. “Whether it’s for relaxing, hosting parties, or a home office, Garden Structures & Landscape Construction Inc. can take any custom design from initial concept to completion.”